COMPUTER CRIME: HACKING/CRACKING

As in the case of other systems and fields, there are also crimes related to computers. Computer crimes result from deliberate tampering with data and information.

The people who are associated with computer crimes are often called Hackers, Crackers, Virus programmers, Breachers, Information Warriors, etc. whatever name they may have, they are all people who violate computer security. They practice unlawful and illegal activities related to computer systems.

A Hacker is a person who breaks into a computer system to get access to the information stored there. A hacker may not cause any harm to the system or organization, but hacking is still illegal and unethical.

A cracker is a person who breaks into a computer system just like a hacker, with the intention to steal passwords, files, or programs for unauthorized use. They may sell this information to some other people for money. Crackers cause financial damage to an organization.

Virus programmers are like crackers who breach the computer system, in order to steal information or cause harm to computer systems. They program dangerous viruses to get access to systems.

Sources: Cordova Learning Series Book and google.com for the image.